Whip & Tree Planting

Laying the Foundations for Future Woodland

Establishing Resilient Landscapes with Whip and Tree Planting

Whip and tree planting is a cost-effective and ecologically rich method for creating woodlands, shelterbelts, and hedgerows across estates and large landscapes. Whether your goal is biodiversity gain, habitat creation, or carbon offsetting, we deliver tailored planting schemes that blend environmental benefit with long-term visual impact. Our approach supports thriving, future-proofed ecosystems through thoughtful species selection, expert implementation, and ongoing care.

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From Whips to Woodlands: A Structured Planting Strategy

We combine young bare-root whips with feathered or standard trees to accelerate canopy cover and structure across large planting zones. Native species such as Oak, Hazel, Rowan, Hawthorn, and Field Maple are selected for their ecological value and site suitability, creating habitats that support wildlife corridors, soil health, and seasonal interest.

Each project begins with careful site preparation — clearing competing growth and enriching the soil if needed. Whips are planted using efficient slit or notch methods, while larger trees are pit-planted, staked, and guarded. We install protective shelters and mulch to ensure young trees establish quickly and safely in their environment.

Once planted, we carry out regular inspections and beat-up where necessary to replace losses. Our team provides maintenance, weeding, and pruning over the first few seasons to guide successful establishment. Whether part of a rewilding plan or a strategic estate enhancement, this method delivers long-term environmental return and visual harmony across your land.

Planting Approach:

Whips are planted at high densities (typically 1.5–2 m spacing, or 1,100–2,500 stems per hectare) to promote rapid canopy development and natural competition. These are usually native species such as oak (Quercus robur), hazel (Corylus avellana), rowan (Sorbus aucuparia), hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), and field maple (Acer campestre).
Feathered or standard trees are strategically included at lower densities (e.g., 5–10 per hectare) to provide early vertical structure, future canopy trees, or specimen planting for landscape impact.

Site Preparation and Planting:

Ground is cleared of competing vegetation, and, if needed, soil is improved with organic matter or biochar.
Whips are planted by notch or slit methods; larger trees are pit-planted, staked, and secured with ties.
Guards or shelters (e.g., spiral guards or 1.2 m tubes) are installed to protect young trees from deer, rabbits, or livestock.
Mulching or weed control is applied around each planting station to conserve moisture and reduce competition.

Aftercare and Establishment:

Regular inspections, watering (where needed), and maintenance are carried out during the first 3–5 years.
Beating-up (replacing failed trees) and formative pruning help ensure successful establishment and long-term resilience.
Planting may contribute to estate-wide biodiversity net gain, carbon offsetting goals, or woodland grant schemes such as EWCO or England Woodland Creation Grant.

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Please get in touch to arrange a site visit and a member of our team will come out to your site to assess the works that you require.

T: 01420 579071
E: [email protected]

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